SHEEP. 45 
fleeces, destitute of external gum. The sheep and the wool 
bear a close resemblace to the Saxon, and if not actually mixed 
with that blood, they have been formed into a similar variety 
by a similar course of breeding. 
“Class jirst are larger and stronger sheep than those orig- 
inally imported from Spain, and in well-selected flocks or indi- 
viduals the fleece is of a decidedly better quality.’* 
The Merino, although a native of a warm climate, becomes 
readily inured to the greatest extremes of cold, flourishing even 
80 far north as Sweden without degenerating in fleece or form 
Fig. 22, 
Toe Spanish Merino. 
It is patient, docile, hardy, and long lived. Its flesh, in spite 
of the prejudice which exists on the subject, is short-grained, 
and of a good flavor when killed at a proper age. It is longer 
in coming to maturity than most other breeds, and does not 
attain its full growth till it is about three years old.t 
* Randall. + Transactions of:New York State Agricultural Society. 
